Although the use of three-dimensional printing in orthopaedics is relatively new, many benefits of this technology to both patients and providers have already been observed. Printing models of fractured bone based upon segmented CT imaging allows for improved surgical planning as surgeons are able to view and physically manipulate accurate representations of fracture patterns prior to surgery, increasing both speed and accuracy of fixation in the operating room. The use of three-dimensional models by surgeons prior to surgery has been shown to reduce blood loss, intraoperative time, and fluoroscopy use. These models also have incredible potential in orthopaedic resident and patient education. Among residents, these models significantly improve recognition of fracture patterns, while patients benefit from the use of these models through increased trust and satisfaction with their surgeon’s care, as well as decreased anxiety about their injury. Currently, the imaging segmentation and model generation process are prohibitively costly both in terms of time and money; however, in the future, three-dimensional printing may become a point-of-care technology in the orthopaedic field as technology improves and costs decrease. This article aims to illustrate the value of three-dimensional printing and virtual reality technologies in preoperative planning and intraoperative precision, resident education, and patient understanding and satisfaction. The benefits and challenges of the technologies are discussed, as well as current limitations.

INTRODUCTION:A separate tibial tubercle fragment (TF) is found in up to half of all bicondylar tibial plateau (BTP) fractures. Adequate healing of the TF is required to reconstitute the extensor mechanism of the knee. The purpose of this study was to compare outcomes after surgical fixation of BTP fractures with and without a TF. MATERIALS AND METHODS:Retrospective comparative study of adult patients undergoing open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) of a Schatzker V/VI BTP fracture at two Level 1 trauma centers. Primary outcomes were patient-reported outcomes as assessed by the PROMIS Physical Function (PF) score and EQ-5D-3L. Secondary outcomes included rates of infection, reoperation, and nonunion. Patient demographics, fracture characteristics, and outcomes were compared for patients with and without a TF. RESULTS:189 patients (mean follow-up 8.1 yrs) were included. 55 patients (29%) had a separate TF. There was no significant difference in PROMIS PF (48.1 vs 47.5, p = 0.45) or EQ-5D-3L scores (0.82 vs 0.83, p = 0.32) between patients with and without a separate tubercle fragment.Patients with a TF had more open fractures (16% vs 5%, p = 0.02) and high energy injuries (66% vs 49%, p = 0.03).There was no significant difference in the rates of deep infection (15% vs 8%, p = 0.19) or unplanned reoperation (23% vs 13%, p = 0.09). There were more nonunions in the TF group (11% vs 2%, p = 0.02) but only two involved the tubercle fragment. CONCLUSION:In this comparative study, the presence of a TF did not portend a worse functional outcome for patients with a healed fracture. Rates of open fracture and high energy mechanism of injury were significantly higher in the TF group.. Surgeons should be aware that a separate TF may indicate a more severe injury. More studies are needed to determine whether the presence of a TF is associated with higher complication rates.

Bicondylar tibial plateau fractures are technically demanding fractures that have a high complication rate. We sought to review the recent literature with the aim to summarize the development of new classification systems that may enhance the surgeon's understanding of the fracture pattern and injury. We highlight the best methods for infection control and touch on new innovative solutions using 3D printer models and augmented mixed reality to provide potentially personalized solutions for each specific fracture configuration.

Introduction Elder abuse is a prevalent, though often overlooked and underreported, cause of musculoskeletal injury in the elderly population. The purpose of this review is to provide an updated overview of the prevalence of elder abuse, its association with musculoskeletal injuries, and the available resources to aid orthopaedic surgeons in early detection and intervention. Significance Improved training on this topic is needed throughout the medical education of orthopaedic surgeons to effectively recognize and address elder abuse. Our findings reveal an urgent need for increased awareness, education, and collaboration among healthcare professionals to address this significant public health concern. As the aging population continues to grow, understanding the connection between elder abuse and musculoskeletal injuries is essential for providing comprehensive care to older adults. Results This review offers practical recommendations for identifying individuals at risk of elder abuse and outlines strategies for intervention. Indicators of abuse range from obvious signs like dirty clothes, neglect, and unattended injuries from falls, to more subtle cues requiring careful observation and questioning, such as mental health symptoms and family histories of abuse. Conclusion By shedding light on this often-overlooked issue, this review advocates for a proactive approach to identifying and addressing elder abuse to safeguard the well-being and quality of life of older individuals.

Intimate partner violence is an overlooked, underestimated, and under reported cause of musculoskeletal injury. This literature review aims to provide an updated overview of the prevalence of IPV, along with the identification and screening tools available to orthopaedic surgeons for early detection and intervention. Additionally, the review discusses the importance of training in medical education for orthopaedic surgeons to effectively recognize and address IPV. Through an analysis of current research and best practices, this review highlights the need for increased awareness, education, and collaboration among healthcare professionals to effectively address IPV as a public health issue.

OBJECTIVES:To determine change in stiffness and horizontal translation of a geriatric extra-articular proximal tibia fracture model after intramedullary nailing with distal (long)-segment blocking screws versus proximal (short)-segment blocking screws. METHODS:Unstable extra-articular proximal tibia fractures (OTA/AO 41-A3) were created in 12 geriatric cadaveric tibias. Intramedullary nails were locked with a standard construct (4 proximal screws and 2 distal screws). Specimens were then divided into 2 groups (6 matched pairs per group). Group 1 had a blocking screw placed lateral to the nail in the proximal segment (short segment). Group 2 had a blocking screw placed 1 cm distal to the fracture and medial to the nail (long segment). Specimens were then axially loaded and cycled to failure or cycle completion (50,000 cycles). RESULTS:Long-segment blocking screws significantly decreased the amount of horizontal translation at the fracture site compared with short-segment screws (0.77 vs. 2.0 mm, P = 0.039). They also resulted in a greater trend towards greater baseline stiffness, (807.32 ± 216.95 N/mm vs. 583.12 ± 130.1 N/mm, P = 0.072). There was no difference in stiffness after cyclic loading or survival through 50,000 cycles between the long-segment and short-segment groups. CONCLUSION:Long-segment blocking screws added to an intramedullary nail construct resulted in decreased horizontal translation at the fracture site compared with short-segment screws in this model of a geriatric proximal tibia fracture. CLINICAL RELEVANCE:Blocking screws are commonly used to aid in fracture alignment during intramedullary nailing of proximal tibia fractures. Even when not required to attain or maintain alignment, the addition of a blocking screw in either the proximal or the distal (long) segment may help mitigate the "Bell-Clapper Effect" in geriatric patients.

This literature review examines the impact of orthopaedic trauma on patient mental health. It focuses on patient outcomes, available resources, and healthcare provider knowledge and education. Orthopaedic trauma represents a significant physical and psychological burden for patients, often resulting in long-term disability, pain, and functional limitations. Understanding the impact of orthopaedic trauma on patient mental health is crucial for improving patient care, and optimizing recovery and rehabilitation outcomes. In this review, we synthesize the findings of empirical studies over the past decade to explore the current understanding of mental health outcomes in patients with orthopaedic trauma. Through this analysis, we identify gaps in existing research, as well as potential avenues for improving patient care and mental health support for patients with severe orthopaedic injuries. Our review reveals the pressing need for collaboration between healthcare providers, mental health professionals, and social support systems to ensure comprehensive mental care for patients with traumatic orthopaedic injuries.

Fixation for suprasyndesmotic fibula fractures (AO/OTA type 44C, consistent with Weber C) is classically achieved using a single one-third tubular plate. However, these fractures may sometimes require stronger fixation due to the diaphyseal fracture location and the lack of structural support from injured ligaments. To increase stability, 3.5 mm plates can be used, but these plates are bulky and too stiff to contour. As alternative, the authors present the technique and clinical and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) of using stacked one-third tubular plating for suprasyndesmotic fibula fractures to increase stability of fixation. Between 2021 and 2023, 14 patients were treated with stacked one-third tubular plating. All patients healed uneventfully. One patient developed an infection with wound breakdown and exposed hardware after fracture healing. Thirteen patients (93%) responded to PROs. The median Olerud-Molander ankle score was 75 (interquartile range [IQR]: 30-80), the median EQ-5D-5L score was 80 (IQR: 69-81), and the median numeric rating scale (NRS) score was 3 (IQR: 0-5). The use of double-stacked one-third tubular plates is a simple and safe technique that can be used to increase stability of suprasyndesmotic fibula fractures leading to reliable healing rates and satisfactory PROs.Levels of Evidence: Level IV Retrospective Case Series.

To prospectively determine if forward-looking infrared (FLIR) camera temperature measurements can predict postoperative wound complications in high-energy lower extremity fractures. This is a prospective cohort study from a single level 1 trauma centre. Adult patients who sustained unilateral high-energy lower extremity fractures (tibial plateau, tibial plafond, trimalleolar ankle, midfoot, or calcaneus fractures) were included in the study. Preoperative and post-induction FLIR thermographic measurements were taken using the FLIRONE ® PRO camera system. The main outcome of interest was the development of any wound related postoperative complication. Forty-eight patients were included in the study. A majority of the patients were male (58

Nonunion of bicondylar tibial plateau (BTP) fractures following open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) is rare but challenging. We report a case series of aseptic BTP nonunions, approaches to treatment, and long-term outcomes. Retrospective case series of aseptic nonunion in operatively treated BTP fractures. Cases with deep infection prior to a revision were excluded. Demographic, injury, and initial fixation characteristics were collected. Clinical course following diagnosis of nonunion was reviewed. Revision operation characteristics, timing, and outcomes were recorded. 13 patients with aseptic nonunion were identified from 508 BTP fractures. Mean (SD) follow-up was 5.2 years (4.6) from the first revision operation for nonunion. Nine patients underwent revision ORIF, which led to union in 6/9 cases. Two patients had total knee arthroplasty (TKA) performed as the initial revision operation for nonunion. One patient was treated with bone grafting without revision of implants and one patient was lost to follow-up after diagnosis of nonunion. Three patients subsequently had TKA performed following failed revision ORIF. In total 5/13 patients underwent TKA. Revision ORIF of aseptic nonunion of a BTP fracture often leads to successful union. However, TKA may be utilized in select cases and at a higher rate than in primary tibial plateau fractures.

Purpose: Complete articular tibial plateau fractures are typically high-energy injuries associated with significant soft tissue trauma. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of wound complications and need for soft tissue coverage after open, complete articular tibial plateau fractures. The secondary aim was to study the effect of timing of fixation and timing of flap coverage on deep infection rates in these injuries. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study of consecutive patients > 18 years undergoing ORIF of a Bicondylar Tibial Plateau (BTP) fracture between 2001 and 2018. Surgical data were recorded for open fractures including number of debridements, timing of definitive ORIF and soft tissue coverage relative to injury. Primary outcomes included rates of deep infection and unplanned reoperation. Results: 508 AO/OTA 41C BTP fractures were identified, with 51 open fractures included in 50 patients with a mean (SD) age 45.7 (12.3) years and a mean (SD) follow up of 4.3 (3.8) years. There were 20 cases of deep infection, unplanned reoperation occurred in 26 cases. The majority of cases (28 fractures) had initial external fixation placed, while 24 had ORIF at the initial debridement. Twelve patients had a planned flap for definitive closure on average of 6.4 days (SD 3.9) after injury, 14 required a flap for wound complications. Among patients with IIB and C injuries, rates of deep infection (5/6 vs 1/6, p = 0.02) and reoperation (5/7 vs 2/6, p = 0.08) were higher in patients treated with flap coverage >7 days from injury compared to early flap coverage. There were no differences in complication rates be-tween early ( < 24hrs) and delayed fixation. Conclusions: Complete articular, open tibial plateau fractures are associated with high rates of compli-cations. Time to flap coverage of seven days or more was a significant predictor of deep infection and unplanned reoperation in this cohort. Patients should be counseled about the high rate of unplanned re-operation and definitive soft tissue coverage should be accomplished within a week of injury whenever possible. (c) 2022 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Standardized handoff tools improve communication and patient care; however, their widespread use in surgical fields is lacking. OrthoPass, an orthopaedic adaptation of I-PASS, was developed in 2019 to address handoff concerns and demonstrated sustained improvements across multiple handoff domains over an 18-month period. We sought to characterize the longitudinal effect and sustainability of OrthoPass within a single large residency program 3.5 years after its implementation. This mixed methods study involved electronic handoff review for quality domains in addition to survey distribution and evaluation. We conducted comparative analyses of handoff adherence and survey questions as well as a thematic analysis of provider-free responses. We evaluated 146 electronic handoffs orthopaedic residents, fellows, and advanced practice providers 3.5 years after OrthoPass implementation. Compared with 18-month levels, adherence was sustained across five of nine handoff domains and was markedly improved in two domains. Furthermore, provider valuations of OrthoPass improved regarding promoting communication and patient safety (83% versus 70%) and avoiding patient errors and near misses (72% versus 60%). These improvements were further substantiated by positive trends in Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality Surveys on Patient Safety Culture hospital survey data. Thematic analysis of free responses shared by 37 providers (42%) generated favorable, unfavorable, and balanced themes further contextualized by subthemes. At 3.5 years after its introduction, OrthoPass continues to improve patient handoff quality and to support provider notions of patient safety. Although providers acknowledged the benefits of this electronic handoff tool, they also shared unique insights into several drawbacks. This feedback will inform ongoing efforts to improve OrthoPass.

Objective: To compare fracture patterns and associated injuries for young patients with high- versus low-energy intertrochanteric hip fractures and to report on factors associated with complications after surgical fixation of high-energy fractures. Design: Retrospective comparative study. Setting: Academic Level 1 Trauma Center. Patients: A total of 103 patients 50 years of age or younger were included: 80 high-energy fractures and 23 low-energy fractures. Intervention: Cephalomedullary nailing (N = 92) or a sliding hip screw (N = 11). Main Outcome Measures: Radiographic characteristics of fracture morphology, implant position, and reduction quality and postoperative complications were the main outcome measures. Results: Compared with young patients with low-energy fractures, those with high-energy fractures had more fracture comminution ( P = 0.013) and higher ISS scores ( P < 0.003) and were more likely to require open reduction ( P < 0.001). Patients with low-energy fractures from a ground-level fall had higher rates of alcohol abuse (0.032), cirrhosis (0.010), and chronic steroid use (0.048). Overall reoperation rate for high-energy fractures was 7%, including 2 IT fracture nonunions (5%) and 1 deep infection (2%). For high-energy fractures, ASA class ( P = 0.026), anterior lag screw position ( P = 0.001), and varus malreduction ( P < 0.001) were associated with malunion. Four-part fracture (OTA/AO 31A2.3/Jensen 5) ( P = 0.028) and residual calcar gap >3 mm ( P = 0.03) were associated with reoperation. Conclusions: Surgical treatment of high-energy IT fractures in young patients is technically demanding with potential untoward outcomes. Injury characteristics and severity are significantly different for young patients with high-energy IT fractures compared with low-energy fractures. For young patients with a high-energy IT fracture, surgeons can anticipate a high rate of associated injuries and complex fracture patterns requiring open reduction. For young patients with a low-energy IT fracture, comanagement with a hospitalist or a geriatrician should be considered because they may be physiologically older. Level of Evidence: Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Background: The use of reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) to treat displaced, unstable 3-and 4-part proximal humerus fractures (PHFs) has traditionally been reserved for patients over 70 years old. However, recent data suggest that nearly one-third of all patients treated with RSA for PHF are between 55-69 years old. The purpose of this study was to compare outcomes for patients younger than 70 versus patients older than 70 years of age treated with RSA for a PHF or fracture sequelae.Methods: All patients who underwent primary RSA for acute PHF or fracture sequelae (nonunion, malunion) between 2004 and 2016 were identified. A retrospective cohort study was performed comparing outcomes for patients younger than 70 versus older than 70. Bivariate and survival analyses were performed to evaluate for survival complications, functional outcomes, and implant survival differences.Results: A total of 115 patients were identified, including 39 patients in the young group and 76 cases in the older group. In addition, 40 patients (43.5%) returned functional outcomes surveys at an average of 5.51 years (average age range: 3.04-11.0 years). There were no significant differences in complications, reoperation, implant survival, range of motion, DASH (27.9 vs 23.8, P=0.46), PROMIS (43.3 vs 43.6, P=0.93), or EQ5D (0.75 vs 0.80, P=0.36) scores between the two age cohorts.Conclusion: At a minimum of 3 years after RSA for a complex PHF or fracture sequelae, we found no significant difference in complications, reoperation rates, or functional outcomes between younger patients with an average age of 64 years and older patients with an average age of 78 years. To our knowledge, this is the first study to specifically examine the impact of age on outcome after RSA for the treatment of a proximal humerus fracture. These findings indicate that functional outcomes are acceptable to patients younger than 70 in the short term, but more studies are needed. Patients should be counseled that the long-term durability of RSA performed for fractures in young, active patients remains unknown.

Objective: To determine whether a reduced secondary operation rate offsets higher implant charges when using suture button fixation for syndesmotic injuries. Design: Retrospective cohort study. Setting: Single, urban, Level 1 trauma center. Participants: Three-hundred twenty-seven (N = 327) skeletally mature patients with rotational ankle fractures (OTA/AO type 44) necessitating concurrent syndesmotic fixation. Intervention: Suture button or solid 3.5-mm screw syndesmotic fixation. Main Outcome Measurements: To compare implant charges with secondary operation charges based on differential implant removal rates between screws and suture buttons. Results: Patients undergoing screw fixation were older (48.8 vs. 39.6 years, P < 0.01), had more ground-level fall mechanisms (59.3% vs. 51.1%, P = 0.026), and sustained fewer 44C type injuries (34.7% vs. 56.8%, P = 0.01). Implant removal occurred at a higher rate in the screw fixation group (17.6% vs. 5.7%, P = 0.005). Binomial logistic regression identified nonsmoker status (B = 1.03, P = 0.04) and implant type (B = 1.41, P = 0.008) as factors associated with implant removal. Adjusting for age, the NNT with a suture button construct to prevent one implant removal operation was 9, with mean resulting additional implant charges of $9747 ($1083/case). Backward calculations using data from previous large studies estimated secondary operation charges at approximately $14220, suggesting a potential 31.5% cost savings for suture buttons when considering reduced secondary operation rates. Conclusions: A reduced secondary operation rate may offset increased implant charges for suture button syndesmotic fixation when considering institutional implant removal rates for operations occurring in tertiary care settings. Given these offsetting charges, surgeons should use the syndesmotic fixation strategy they deem most appropriate in their practice setting. Level of Evidence: Economic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Category: Basic Sciences/Biologics; Hindfoot; Trauma Introduction/Purpose: Three dimensional printing is an actively emerging field within the realm of medical devices. This technology expands therapeutic options and customization of implants to individual patients. The ability to create products that replicate normal bony anatomy has been a significant advancement in the setting of difficult clinical scenarios. 3-D generated, custom implants increase the potential for joint and limb salvage with the goal of improving functional outcomes. We present a technical tip for utilizing 3-D printing technology to create custom, anatomically-matched antibiotic cement spacers for limb- salvage applications. We present two illustrative cases and share our experiences, lessons learned, and a succinct review of the pertinent literature merging 3-D printing and the use of antibiotic cement as temporary and permanent reconstructive solutions. Methods: While the majority of 3-D printing is done for the purpose of generating devices for implantation, we present a technical tip for designing a 3-D printed mold from which to create an antibiotic cement spacer for implantation. Two case illustrations demonstrate comorbid patients presenting with infected implants, osteomyelitis, bone loss, deformity and wound dehiscense. We describe the process of patient selection, implant design, fabrication, and implantation of a custom molded antibiotic cement talus for the purpose of limb salvage. Results: Case illustrations present two successful limb salvage patients while giving a thorough explanation of our technique, learned tips and tricks. This applied technology builds on prior use of antibiotic cement in limb salvage of the lower extremity, most of which is joint sacrificing. 3-D printing the mold for an anatomic talus cement spacer results in a joint sparing limb salvage solution. Conclusion: Utilization of currently available 3-D printing technology as applied to production of anatomic cement spacers should be considered to enhance limb salvage. This innovative application of printing technology is merged with current, pertinent literature regarding antibiotic cement to offer surgeons expanded options for temporary or definitive reconstructive techniques in some of the most challenging patients. Keywords Trauma , Foot and Ankle Infection , Ankle Arthroplasty

Purpose: The I-PASS tool has been shown to decrease medical errors in patient handoffs in nonorthopaedic surgery fields. We prospectively studied the implementation of a version of this handoff tool modified for orthopaedic surgery patients in an academic practice at two level I trauma centers. Methods: This was a prospective study of a multicenter handoff improvement program. Handoffs were evaluated preintervention and at 1, 6, 9, and 18 months postintervention for key data elements defined by I-PASS. Rates of adverse clinical outcomes were compared before and after the handoff intervention. Results: Seven hundred five electronic patient handoffs were analyzed. From preintervention to the 18-month time point, notable improvement was observed in 8 of 9 targeted quality elements. In Poisson regression analysis, adherence to the standardized handoff format was sustained at markedly improved levels throughout all postintervention time points. No statistically significant differences were observed between rates of 30-day readmission, 90-day readmission, urinary tract infection, pulmonary embolism/deep vein thrombosis, surgical site infection, or delirium before and after the intervention. Conclusion: Introduction of an orthopaedic-specific I-PASS tool produced sustained adherence from a group of over 50 orthopaedic providers. Objective quality of handoffs improved markedly as defined by the I-PASS standard, and 86% of the providers supported the ongoing use of the tool. Despite the improvement in handoff quality, we were unable to demonstrate a notable change in measured clinical outcomes. Methods for the development and implementation of the orthopaedic-specific I-PASS tool are described. Orthopaedic residency programs should consider using a version of I-PASS to standardize care.

Category: Ankle; Trauma Introduction/Purpose: Posterior malleolus fractures (PMFs) are typically associated with trimalleolar ankle fractures and have been reported to occur in 10-40% of ankle fractures. The PM may be fixed by direct ORIF or indirect percutaneous reduction. Direct reduction via a posterolateral approach is required for larger fragments, which requires prone or lateral decubitus positioning. Indirect reduction and fixation with anterior to posterior (AP) screws remains the most common method, in which screw threads are not entirely across the fracture site to allow interfragmentary compression.Objective: Determine the risk to anatomic structures utilizing a percutaneous technique for posterior to anterior (PA) screw fixation. It is advantageous as it places all the threads across the fracture site even for small fragments and can be performed in the supine position. Methods: 10 fresh-frozen, morphologically normal cadaver lower leg. Under fluoroscopic guidance, 1.35 mm Kirschner wire was inserted percutaneously from anteromedial to posterolateral. Guidewire was inserted from a starting point just medial to the tibialis anterior tendon and aimed at a point just lateral to the Achilles tendon. Small skin incision was made over the wire posteriorly, displacing the Achilles tendon medially as required. The wire was then over-drilled in posterior to anterior direction and replaced with a 4.0 mm partially threaded cannulated screw directed posterior to anterior. Each specimen was dissected, and adjacent soft tissue and neurovascular structures were identified. The distance from the guidewire to each anatomic structure of interest was measured. Descriptive analysis and the correlation between the mean distances from the guidewire to each structure was calculated using SPSS version 26. Results: The sural nerve was directly transected in 1/10 specimens (10%) and in contact with the wire in a second specimen (10%). There was a significant correlation between the proximity of the guidewire to the apex of Volkmann’s tubercle and its proximity to the sural nerve.(r= 0.705, p = 0.034) The flexor hallucis longus (FHL) muscle belly was perforated by the guidewire 40% of the time but was not tethered or entrapped by the screw. The neurovascular bundles were safely away from the wire in all cases. The lateral 1-2 mm of the Achilles tendon was pierced by the guidewire 20% of the time. Although suboptimal, these injuries may be of little clinical consequence, and the screw passed without tethering the tendon in all cadaveric specimens. Conclusion: Percutaneous PA screw placement is a safe technique which can be improved with several modifications. A mini- open technique is recommended to protect the sural nerve. The surgeon may consider aiming slightly more medial and closer to the Achilles tendon in order to avoid injury to the sural nerve. It is also advisable to use a soft tissue guide when over-drilling the guidewire. There may be potential for tethering of the FHL with use of a washer or large screw head. Risk to the anterior and posterior neurovascular bundles is minimal.

Objectives: To compare the risk of deep infection and unplanned reoperation after staged open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) of bicondylar tibial plateau (BTP) fractures whether elements of the temporizing external fixator were prepped into the surgical field or completely removed before definitive fixation. Design: Retrospective comparative cohort study. Setting: Two academic Level 1 trauma centers. Patients/Participants: One hundred forty-seven OTA/AO 41-C (Schatzker 6) BTP fractures treated with a 2-stage protocol of acute spanning ex-fix followed by definitive ORIF between 2001 and 2018. Intervention: Seventy-eight fractures had retained elements of the original ex-fix prepped in situ during surgery for definitive internal fixation, and 69 had the ex-fix construct completely removed before prepping and draping. Main Outcome Measures: Deep infection and unplanned reoperation. Results: Among 147 patients treated with staged ORIF, the overall deep infection rate was 26.5% and the reoperation rate was 33.3%. There were high rates of deep infection (26.9% vs. 26.1%, P = 0.909) and unplanned reoperation (30.8% vs. 36.2%, P = 0.483) in both groups, but no difference whether the ex-fix was prepped in or completely removed. Within the retained ex-fix group, there was no difference in infection with retention of the entire ex-fix compared with only the ex-fix pins (28.1% vs. 26.1%, P = 0.842). Conclusions: We observed high complication rates in this cohort of OTA/AO 41C BTP fractures treated with staged ORIF, but prepping in the ex-fix did not lead to a significant increase in rates of infection or reoperation. This study provides the treating surgeon with clinical data about a common practice used to facilitate definitive fixation of unstable BTP fractures. Level of Evidence: Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Background With today’s expanding use of total ankle arthroplasty, the ever-present trauma patient, and patients with uncontrolled comorbid conditions, surgeons face significant challenges for lower extremity reconstruction. These patients highlight some of those who may present with unique anatomy, bone loss, infection, and various other local and systemic factors that affect treatment options for successful outcomes. Three dimensional (3-D) printing for medical devices is allowing for new and customized ways to meet patient and surgeon goals of limb salvage and reconstruction. Case presentations While the majority of 3-D printing is done for the purpose of implantation, we present a technical tip for designing a 3-D printed mold from which to create an antibiotic cement spacer for implantation. With two case illustrations including a talus fracture nonunion and infected subtalar arthrodesis nonunion, we describe the process of patient selection, implant design, fabrication, and implantation of a custom molded antibiotic cement talus. Discussion Case illustrations present two successful limb salvage patients while giving a thorough explanation of our technique, learned tips and tricks. This applied technology builds on prior use of antibiotic cement in limb salvage of the lower extremity, most of which are joint sacrificing. 3-D printing the mold for an anatomic talus cement spacer results in a joint sparing limb salvage solution. Innovative 3-D printing technology is merged with current, pertinent literature regarding antibiotic cement to offer surgeons expanded options for temporary or definitive reconstructive techniques in some of the most challenging patients.